Free English and French classes for newcomers (LINC and CLIC), with the free YMCA language assessment in Toronto

Language classes in English (LINC) and French (CLIC) funded by the Government of Canada, online or in a classroom, full time or part time, at no cost. Before you start, you need a free language assessment. In Toronto, the YMCA Language Assessment and Referral Centres test you and refer you to a free class near you.

Program in Toronto. Newcomers Languages & ESL Education & tutoring

When: Classes run all year, during the day, evening or on weekends. An in-person assessment takes 2.5 to 3 hours. Assessment results are temporarily valid for 24 months.

How to reach them

1. Book a free language assessment (YMCA Language Assessment and Referral Centres, Toronto).
2. Say who you are and what you are offering or asking.
3. Come back here and tell us if they answered.

Other ways, if that one is quiet

• EmailEmail language.test@ymcagta.org
  It workedNo answer

• PhoneCall 416-925-5462
  It workedNo answer

Where else they are

Their website is canada.ca/.../classes.html. You can also find them on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and X.

Good to know

• For whomLINC and CLIC classes are for permanent residents and protected persons. The free YMCA assessment is for people 18 or older (or younger with a high school diploma) who are a Canadian citizen born outside Canada, a permanent resident, a convention refugee or protected person, a refugee claimant, a live-in caregiver, a person whose permanent residence application has initial approval, or a CUAET holder from Ukraine; the assessor can also refer you to other free government-funded English or French programs.
• CostFree
• LanguagesEnglish, French
• Their stepsBook your free language assessment with the YMCA: use the Book an Appointment form on the YMCA page, call 416-925-5462 or email language.test@ymcagta.org. Go to one of the 5 Toronto centres (North York at 4580 Dufferin Street, Etobicoke at 1530 Albion Road, Lansing Square in North York, the Barrett Centre at 365 Bloor Street East, or Scarborough Milner). Bring photo ID and the original or a certified copy of your status document, such as a PR card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence. The assessor tests your speaking, listening, reading and writing and refers you to a free English or French program that fits you. Register and start your classes. If you complete CLB level 4 or higher in speaking and listening, your certificate can be used as proof of language for Canadian citizenship.

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